Sydney's inner-city suburbs are increasingly resisting the establishment of fast food outlets, citing concerns about local identity, public health, and the impact on existing businesses. This trend occurs as the number of fast food and takeaway businesses in Australia exceeded 26,000 in 2025.
Redfern McDonald's Proposal Rejected
In May, the City of Sydney Council rejected a $3 million development application for a 24-hour McDonald's in Redfern. Out of 286 public submissions, 17 supported the proposal.
- LaVerne Bellear, CEO of Aboriginal Medical Services Redfern, objected, citing research that links fast food proliferation to increased rates of obesity, diabetes, and diet-related illnesses, which disproportionately affect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations.
- Artist Blak Douglas echoed these concerns, stating that fast food chains would detract from First Nations businesses focused on native nutrition.
- A McDonald's spokesperson stated that restaurants contribute to local communities by creating jobs and providing training.
Newtown's Continued Resistance
Newtown, another inner-city suburb, has also consistently opposed McDonald's developments. A McDonald's in Newtown closed in 2000.
- A 2025 proposal for a 24-hour McDonald's outlet was rejected by the City of Sydney council. Reasons for rejection included a lack of merit, non-compliance with late trading regulations, absence of customer toilets, and potential footpath hazards for delivery drivers.
- Newtown resident Liam Coffey credited community social media campaigns with influencing the decision. Coffey argued that fast food companies negatively impact local businesses by creating unfair competition.
Impact of KFC in Newtown
In July last year, a KFC opened on King Street in Newtown, replacing an Indian and Sri Lankan restaurant. This development received approval, unlike the McDonald's proposals.
- Md Rubel, owner of Broaster Chicken Newtown, reported a "disaster" for his business since KFC's opening, struggling with rent and supplier payments. He anticipates that a McDonald's in the area would lead to his business's closure.
Marrickville Approval and Vandalism
A McDonald's restaurant in Marrickville was approved last year via a Complying Development Certificate, which allowed it to proceed without public or council support. During its construction in September, the site was vandalized.
Local Identity and Equity Concerns
Nicky Morrison, Professor of Planning at Western University, explained that strong local identity and a desire to preserve social and cultural fabric drive opposition in areas like Redfern and Newtown. She also raised an "equity question," noting that lower-income areas might have fewer resources to mobilize against such developments, potentially leading to disproportionate health impacts.
Differing Perspectives
Fabio Stefanelli, owner of La Favola Italian restaurant in Newtown, expressed indifference towards the new KFC, suggesting it attracted more people and diversified late-night food options. Fashion store owner Ruth Tate understood the business rationale for KFC's location due to Newtown's increased nightlife.